Food History of Dau Go Cave (Wooden Stakes Cave), Ha Long Bay, Vietnam
While Dau Go Cave, known for its magnificent natural structures and historical significance, does not have its own distinct culinary history, it is located within Ha Long Bay which boasts an extensive food culture. The cuisine associated with the region around Ha Long Bay primarily centers on seafood due to its proximity to the Gulf of Tonkin. Gaining inspiration from the rich aquatic resources, local chefs have developed a unique culinary style that marries fresh seafood with traditional Vietnamese flavors.
Dau Go Cave itself has been a point of interest since historical times, notably playing a part during the Mongol invasions of Vietnam when General Tran Hung Dao is said to have hidden wooden stakes in the cave to be used against the Mongol ships. However, the cave's relation to food could be strong since soldiers and people of old would have used the local resources to sustain themselves, including seafood and indigenous ingredients.
Must-Try Top 10 Food Dishes in Ha Long Bay for Tourists
- Cha Muc (Squid Sausage) - Non-Veg: A savory dish made from ground squid, which is often considered a specialty of Ha Long Bay.
- Banh Cuon Cha Muc (Steamed Rice Rolls with Squid Sausages) - Non-Veg: This dish combines the unique Cha Muc with soft, steamed rice rolls.
- Seafood Spring Rolls - Non-Veg: Fresh spring rolls filled with a variety of seafood, vegetables, and local herbs.
- Sam (Horseshoe Crab) - Non-Veg: A unique delicacy, these dishes can be prepared in various ways, such as salads or soups.
- Grilled Oysters - Non-Veg: Oysters grilled with different kinds of aromatic herbs and sauces.
- Ha Long Bay Steamed Shrimp - Non-Veg: Fresh shrimp steamed to perfection, usually enjoyed with a dip made of salt, pepper, and lime juice.
- Ha Long Fried Squid with Pineapple - Non-Veg: Fried squid with the tangy taste of pineapple, offering a sweet and savory dish.
- Banh Gai (Thorn Leaf Cake) - Veg: A sweet treat made from thorn leaf essence and rice flour, filled with mung bean paste.
- Tien Yen Hill Chicken - Non-Veg: A regional delicacy, this free-range chicken is usually grilled or roasted and known for its tender meat.
- Nem Cua Be (Crab Spring Rolls) - Non-Veg: Spring rolls filled with crab meat, a staple appetizer in northern Vietnam.
Top Famous Restaurants in Ha Long Bay, Vietnam
While there may not be restaurants directly inside of Wooden Stakes Cave, Ha Long Bay has several notable dining options nearby.
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Cua Vang Restaurant
Address: Tran Quoc Nghien, Ha Long, Quang Ninh
Famous Food: Cha Muc (Squid Sausage) - Non-Veg
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Bien Mo Floating Restaurant
Address: Zone 1, Ha Long Bay, Ha Long, Quang Ninh
Famous Food: Grilled Seafood varieties - Non-Veg
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Avocado Restaurant
Address: Bai Chay, Ha Long City
Famous Food: Fresh Seafood Platter - Non-Veg
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Banh Gai Ho Tay
Address: Ha Long Road, Bai Chay, Quảng Ninh
Famous Food: Banh Gai (Thorn Leaf Cake) - Veg
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Quang Anh Restaurant
Address: Area 6, Bai Chay, Thanh Nien, Quang Ninh
Famous Food: Sam Horseshoe Crab - Non-Veg